US tariffs of 10% have recently been imposed on most UK goods imported into the United States. To support businesses in Surrey and the rest of the country, government is introducing some support measures.

Businesses in Surrey have a long track-record of trading with the world. And with the United States being our largest and closest trading partner, it could have an impact on how you do your business.

UK government has a range of US tariffs support on offer, including:

• Export Academy webinar on 28 April
  • Open to relevant businesses covering themes such as how rules of origin affect tariffs.
• Increased government-backed finance
  • Additional funding has been made available via UK Export Finance and the British Business Bank.
• Enhanced UK Global Tariff tool
  • Allows businesses to look up commodity codes, duty and VAT rates.
•  US Market Guide
  • General information on exporting from the UK to the US.
• Reduced pricing on everyday items and summer essentials
  • Government has suspended tariffs on a range of imported goods into the UK.

US tariffs currently in operation

The additional 10% tariff is on top of existing US duties, fees and taxes on imports from the UK. It’s been live since 5 April.

These additional tariffs do not apply to US imports of:

• steel, aluminium articles and automobiles, which are subject to separate additional 25% tariffs. Tariffs of 25% on automobile parts are due to be implemented no later than 3 May.
• copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and lumber
• energy, energy products and other minerals not available in the US

The tariffs situation is fast moving. So, it’s worth discussing the latest situation direct with the UK export support service before making any key business decisions.

UK trade with the US

The UK exports more to the US than to any other single country.

A recent House of Commons Library research paper states that in 2024, UK exports to the US were worth more than £59 billion. This totals 16% of all UK goods exports. The next largest market is Germany which accounted for £32 billion of goods exports (9% of the total).

The top five UK goods exports to the US over the year to September 2024 were:

• cars (£8.3 billion)
• medicinal and pharmaceutical products (£7.2 billion)
• mechanical power generators, intermediate (£5.2 billion)
• scientific instruments, capital (£2.4 billion)
• aircraft (£2.2 billion).

While UK exports of goods to the US are large, exports of services are much larger. In 2023, UK exports of services to the US were £119 billion, almost twice as large as goods exports.

The top five services exports to the US in 2023 were:

• other business services, including legal services, accounting and architecture (£51.8 billion)
• financial services (£25.8 billion)
• insurance and pensions (£10.5 billion)
• telecoms, computer and information services (£9.6 billion)
• travel (£7.3 billion)

While tariffs are not imposed on services, some services exports may be linked to exports of goods.

Extra US tariffs support

Even with the extra charges, there’s lots of opportunity for Surrey businesses to trade globally.

With the right preparation, resources and support, your business can thrive on the world stage.

At Business Surrey, we’re here to guide you at every stage of your export journey. This includes extra US tariffs support.

Visit our Export and International Trade page for a list of helpful resources and organisations which can help you on your way.

Or if you would like more bespoke support, get in touch with out team of experts via our business support form.

The North Downs Line Partnership, which aims to improve east-west train connectivity in Surrey, is receiving support from key organisations.

The North Downs Line is a key orbital east-west link for the South-East. It connects Reading, Guildford, Dorking, Gatwick Airport and the towns and villages in between.

As part of broader efforts to support regional economic growth and transport decarbonisation, a new partnership group is now meeting.

Great Western Railway (GWR), Network Rail, London Gatwick and Surrey County Council attended the inaugural meeting of the group. Its aim is to improve local services, grow the line and unlock further benefits for customers.

Partners want to develop the growth corridor while working closely together to deliver better services for residents and customers.

A key change could be the introduction of fast-charge battery trains on the line. This is something that GWR bosses shared with partners at the inaugural meeting.

Ongoing improvements

The North Downs Line Partnership is already unlocking benefits for passengers. It is building on early success of collaboration, including increased connectivity and a better timetable.

The December 2023 timetable change saw the introduction of two trains per hour between Reading and London Gatwick. This led to nearly 100,000 new passenger journeys year-on-year, with customers taking advantage of more frequent services to better suit their plans. Further plans to improve the timetable are in development.

Members of the partnership recently visited GWR’s fast charge battery test train at West Ealing to see the innovative technology.

Partners agree battery electric powered trains offer the best solution to replace the diesel trains currently in service on the line. It will provide better outcomes for passengers and support decarbonisation.

Next steps will be to encourage more partners to get involved to improve this vital train link. It is also looking to champion future investment in the line to promote rail as a sustainable way to travel.

This links in with the recently-launched Surrey’s Economic Growth Strategy 2025 to 2035, which identifies transport and connectivity as one of five key drivers of change.

North Downs Line Partnership – what they say

Cllr Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for Transport, Highways and Economic Growth, said:

“We’re pleased to see this new Partnership launched to focus improvements on the North Downs Line, working with a range of organisations to deliver on this. As the first local authority to sign up, we want to encourage more partners to come forward and share knowledge, expertise and ideas to improve the service.”

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer, London Gatwick said:

“As we continue to grow as an airport, it is vital that we continue to invest in boosting sustainable transport options for our passengers and local communities.

“The Great Western Railway service to Reading is already a vital service. Our partnership provides the framework for an even more ambitious and collaborative approach to developing air to rail services at London Gatwick. We are delighted to continue this journey with the GWR team.”

Mark Hopwood, Managing Director of Great Western Railway said:

“The North Downs Line remains a key route on our network, connecting communities across four counties with London Gatwick. We’re proud to serve it. We want to see the timetable strengthened and deliver these improvements with local stakeholders to best accommodate the diverse range of customer needs along the route.”

Mark Goodall, Wessex Route Director for Network Rail, said:

“We are investing in the North Downs Line. Earlier this year, we replaced the wheel timbers on the bridge over the River Wey, south of Guildford.

“We are committed to finding ways to renew and improve the line for years to come to better serve those communities. Later this year, we will be completing the resignalling project on the line between Guildford and Reigate. Further details will be announced in due course.”

Local government reorganisation in Surrey is moving a step forward as leaders of all 12 Surrey councils agree on the key points of an interim proposal for the county.

Under the plans – which need to be signed off by ministers – Surrey Council Council along with the county’s 11 district and borough councils could be dissolved by April 2027. They would be replaced by a series of new unitary councils.

Ministers say streamlining local government could lead to greater efficiencies, improved service delivery, and economic growth for businesses in the area.

Government adds that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Surrey will then unlock further devolution in the county. This could see greater responsibilities transferred out of Whitehall to local leaders to drive economic growth.

Local government reorganisation in Surrey

In February, government asked Surrey to move forward quickly with plans for local government reorganisation and devolution.

All Surrey Council Leaders have worked together over recent weeks, agreeing key areas of collaboration and principles for reorganisation and devolution in the county.

Surrey County Council’s Cabinet are meeting next week (March 18) to agree and submit its interim proposals ahead of the government’s March 21 deadline.

The proposal sets out how the county council will work jointly with district and borough councils through LGR and devolution. It also highlights opportunities for residents and businesses across Surrey.

District and borough councils in Surrey are also discussing options for reorganisation and will publish their recommendations in due course.

Government will give direction on whether any of these options should be developed further. A full business case will then be submitted on 9 May.  A final decision is expected from ministers in the Autumn.

LGR – what council leaders are saying

Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council said: “I’m pleased that Surrey’s Leaders have come together to agree the principles of a local government reorganisation proposal – which makes Surrey the first area in the country to agree a collective plan with all councils.

“I am clear that two unitary councils would bring the most benefits for Surrey’s residents. It would create a simpler model of local government that is more efficient, offers better value for money and improved outcomes for all.

“We are well prepared for change in Surrey and our proposal would set the foundations for better public service alignment and unlock further devolution, meaning we can elect a mayor which will bring more power, flexibility and funding. 

“Throughout the development of this proposal we’ve engaged with partners across Surrey to ensure we’re putting the best option forward to government. It’s important to consider how all council services, as well as other bodies like the police, fire service, health services operate, so any new system makes sense for residents.”

Hannah Dalton, Chair of Surrey Leaders Group said: “The leaders of Surrey’s councils have been meeting weekly to discuss how local government will be structured here in Surrey.

“Today, district and borough councils will publish a report outlining potential options on what form local government reorganisation may take, which will include scenarios for two and three unitary councils. The vast majority of the 11 districts and boroughs are supporting three unitaries.

“Next week, Extraordinary Council Meetings will take place across the county, at which councillors are invited to note the initial submission.

“We remain committed to working together to agree a proposal that achieves the best possible outcomes for our residents.”

How will LGR and devolution impact Surrey businesses?

The creation of new unitary councils across Surrey will affect businesses across the county.

From a practical point of view, who you pay business rates to will change. Other local services like commercial waste, planning, licensing, environmental health and trading standards could also move to a new authority.

Devolution could have an even greater impact. Evidence from areas like Greater Manchester and West Midlands shows that handing greater powers to regional leaders can drive growth. It can also strengthen local economies.

Surrey is already benefiting from some devolved responsibilities. This includes business support delivered via Business Surrey’s Growth Hub service and Surrey Careers Hub.

Additional devolution could see transport, skills, employment support and strategic planning move under an elected regional mayor.

This will mean greater control and local accountability over the development of Surrey’s economy.

What happens next?

Government has asked Surrey County Council to submit an interim plan by next week (March 21). A final proposal is due by May 9. Ministers will then decide on the best option for Surrey by Autumn this year.

To help meet the ambitious timelines, government has postponed County Council elections for one year to May 2026. ​

Elections to new ‘shadow’ unitary councils are expected to take place in May 2026. They could officially go live in April 2027 when existing councils will dissolve. ​

Devolution is set to follow once LGR is complete. This could see a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) created for the county, enabling further devolution across Surrey. Or Surrey could join a neighbouring MSA.

The draft LGR business plan will be available on Surrey County Council’s Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation page when published.

Visit the FAQs page on the County Council website for further information.

Heathrow expansion plans are being backed by government following an announcement by Chancellor Rachel Reeves this week.

In a speech delivered yesterday, the Chancellor said a third runway would “unlock further growth, boost investment, increase exports, and make the UK more open and more connected”.

The government, she added, invites proposals to be brought forward by summer.

In response, Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “We recognise the crucial role of Heathrow airport in supporting employment for Surrey residents, generating investment in the Surrey economy and in attracting and retaining major businesses to locate in the county.

“Our goal is to work constructively with the Government, the airport, relevant national agencies and other local authorities on proposals for a third runway in order to protect and promote the interests of Surrey residents and businesses.

“Despite this, we remain strongly of the view that expansion requires the environmental and surface access issues involved to be satisfactorily addressed.

“Any expansion will only be a success for Surrey residents and businesses and for the wider South East if there is a clear and agreed framework for the necessary infrastructure, including southern rail access, together with appropriate mitigation measures and commitments to address environmental impacts in place before any new runway comes into operation.

“We call on the Government to take the lead in developing such a framework.”

What are the Heathrow expansion plans?

Heathrow expansion plans include a new, full length, runway to the north-west of the airport and several new facilities both on and off the airfield.

An economic impact report published by Heathrow estimates a third runway could boost the UK economy by close to £17.1 billion per annum by 2050 (0.43% of GDP).

Heathrow is currently consulting with investors, government, airline customers and regulators on next steps. Proposals include:

• A new terminal building to the west of Terminal 5 and the eventual demolition of Terminal 3 to make way for a series of new satellite terminals
• Creating new public transport interchange points and consolidating parking facilities
• Adding surface access capacity to the airport, taking advantage of planned future railway upgrades in the area
• Significant community compensation schemes and impact mitigation measures
• Increasing capacity for an additional 260,000 flights per year

Further details – including a series of FAQs – are available on the Heathrow website.

Copyright: Photo © BAA Airports Limited

Throughout 2024 Bucher Municipal has been celebrating the centenary of its UK HQ site in Dorking, Surrey. Bucher engineers and manufactures cleaning and clearing equipment such as street sweepers, snow ploughs and the gritters that help keep our roads safe over the winter months.

The company has spent the last few months celebrating the Dorking site’s 100 year history of manufacturing, innovation and growth. Celebrations kicked off in August with an open day for employees and families. The day included live music, good food, and of course, sweeper rides for all.

Centenary celebrations

In September there was a further formal celebration event at the British Motor Museum with customers, partners, and suppliers. The evening saw over £158k being raised for three local Dorking charities, The Children’s Trust, The Brigitte Trust, and Dorking Beatitudes.

The centenary celebration provided the opportunity to look back at the expansion, and developments that have taken place at the Dorking site over the years, and to reflect on the business’s global sustainability strategy, reflecting Bucher’s commitment to sustainable growth and innovation.

During the year, staff also found time to visit a local primary school to demo street cleaning equipment so reception students could complete their topic on ‘People Who Help Us’.

Bucher Municipal has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a blacksmith’s shop in 1807. With 11 brands and 14 locations across the globe, the business is now a leading manufacturer of vehicles for street cleaning, snow removal and refuse collection worldwide. The company is proud to base its UK HQ in Surrey as it looks forward to its next century.

Relocate to Surrey

Our Invest in Surrey team offers free and confidential services for businesses looking to relocate to Surrey.

Whether you’re a start-up, SME or international company, you can benefit from specialist expertise, local knowledge and business support to help ensure a faster, more successful investment.

Get in touch with our team to find out more.

Check out some of the fantastic businesses based in Surrey on our Interactive Map.

In November this year, a roundtable took place to look at the delivery of affordable housing in Surrey. It was attended by over 30 representatives from registered social housing providers, developers and senior local authority representatives drawn from across the county.  

The session was chaired by Brian Horton of Horton Strategic Ltd, with presentations from Cllr Sinead Mooney, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, and Lydia McLaren from Savills.

The roundtable highlighted the pressing housing crisis in Surrey. Currently median house prices in the county are 11.9 times the median resident earnings, making homeownership increasingly unattainable for many. The South East has seen a 7% decrease in homes gaining planning consent and an 18% decrease in new home starts as of Q3 2024. Savills estimates there is a sub-market housing need of 187,000 homes per year across England, but many areas in Surrey are delivering less than 20% of their affordable housing need. Some districts have reported no affordable housing completions at all in the last six months.

During the session, representatives from both registered social housing providers and developers gave their views on the current process of delivering affordable housing. Both groups highlighted multiple areas where systemic change is required to enable them to deliver the volume of affordable homes that will be required to meet the county’s current and future requirements.  

Conclusion

The roundtable was a highly engaged session that increased understanding of the challenges faced by different organisations in Surrey and beyond. The session ended with a unanimous call for a follow-up roundtable where attendees could come together again to work towards finding actionable strategies to meet the region’s affordable housing needs.

Organisations taking part in the Roundtable

• Accent Housing Group
• Aster Group
• Bellway
• Barratt David Wilson Homes
• DHA Planning
• English Rural Housing Association
• Guildford Borough Council
• Homes England
• Horton Strategic Limited
• Hyde Housing
• Irwin Mitchell Solicitors
• Kier
• Mole Valley District Council
• Raven Housing Trust
• Reigate & Banstead Borough Council
• Savills
• Spelthorne Borough Council
• Surrey County Council
• Surrey Heath Borough Council
• Tandridge District Council
• Transform Housing & Support
• Vivid Homes
• Wates
• Whitmore Vale Housing Association

Support for your business

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing free and accessible support for all businesses in Surrey. Our team of experts can provide independent and impartial advice on growing your business.

• Get free support to grow your business via our Business Support Form.
• Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on news, events and support for all Surrey businesses.
• Search more than 120 different local, regional and national support schemes in our service directory.

The fourth edition of International Trade Week (ITW) is taking place this week (Monday 11 to Friday 15 November 2024).

Led by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and sponsored by Santander UK, in partnership with industry, ITW 2024 will feature five action-packed days of events, workshops and webinars – all free for businesses to attend.

Whether you’re looking to secure your first export contract or expand your existing international sales, ITW will have something for you.

The week’s activities are for UK companies of all sizes and sectors – you just need an interest in growing your business.

Register for International Trade Week events

You will only need to complete registration once to become a member of the UK Export Academy.

From there, you will be able to register for as many free ITW events as you wish.

Check back regularly as events are being added everyday.

If you have any questions about ITW 2024, contact the Department for Business and Trade via email.

Benefits of taking part

• Develop your exporting knowledge and skills
• Discover the wide-ranging support available from DBT and its partners
• Learn about global opportunities and how to seize them
• Understand the benefits of trade deals the UK has signed
• Hear from, and speak to, experts in international trade

Export support for Surrey businesses

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing free and accessible support for all businesses in Surrey. This includes those wanting to export or trade internationally.

Whether you need help navigating trade regulations or finding overseas buyers, our team can connect you with the right partners and tools to ensure your international success.

As part of the 2024 edition of International Trade Week, we have launched our new Export and International Trade page on our website.

This includes highlighting opportunities from supporting organisations who can guide you on your export journey.

Unlock new growth opportunities by exploring the export support services available to your business.

You can also:

• Contact the team for free via our Business Support Form.
• Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates on news, events and support for all Surrey businesses.
• Find out more about what we do and how to access one of our many startup-friendly services by completing our Contact Us form.